Natural disasters may not be under our control, but we can always weather the strongest storm if we arm ourselves with knowledge and skills. Whether you’re camping with a group or not, preparing for the worst situations can help you survive even the most extreme weather conditions. In this issue, we have put together a guide on how to survive avalanches when on their trails.

What you need to know about landslides and avalanches

Surviving landslides and avalanches is never as easy as it sounds. Moving at speeds that can reach up to 80 mph, avalanches can put your life in danger in the blink of an eye. Aside from the ground and snow falling downhill, sharp rocks and debris can also crash down the hill, plowing everything in their path.

In fact, these natural calamities are deadly. In the worst case, it can be buried alive. Basically the best way to survive an avalanche or landslide is to not go camping in the event of a potential threat. Before packing your bags, check the weather reports and ask your local rangers about the likelihood of a landslide or avalanche. If the weather is bad, reschedule your camping plans.

Survive avalanches and landslides

With early preparation and awareness, survival doesn’t have to be a million light-years away. Remember, as a camper, leaving your campsite alive should never be just an option. If you are caught in a landslide or avalanche, here are some of the things to do:

• Choose your camping spot wisely: Before heading out to camp, study your location and identify the most ideal places to camp. Never camp near the base of a hill or a steep incline. Also, don’t pitch your tent near the edges of the top of a slope.
• Stay away from the center of a slope: An avalanche generally moves toward the center of a slope as it proceeds downward. Therefore, when you are climbing, always stay away from the middle of the slope so that you can increase your chances of surviving landslides and avalanches.
• Hang on to a tree: Since avalanches can move at maximum speeds, running away would not be the right decision. Instead, find a large tree and hold onto its branches.
• Swimming uphill: In case you get caught in an avalanche, swim uphill so you don’t get buried in the ground, snow, and debris. Row as hard as you can and do your best to keep your head above the ground.
• Keep calm: In case it is not possible to keep your head above the ground, stay calm and place your hand over your mouth. This will give you enough room to breathe. Relax and do deep breathing exercises.
• Highlight any item: If you cannot move your head or body, remove a tree branch or a small piece of wood on the ground so that the rescue team can locate you immediately.

Surviving avalanches and landslides is not child’s play. However, if you have the will to survive, no calamity can keep you underground.